Innovative Approach to Convert Geographic Information System-Based Highway Models into Multidimensional Building Information Modeling Platforms Using Dynamo

Abstract

This study proposes an innovative process of transforming a geographic information system (GIS)-based highway model into a robust building information modeling (BIM) platform using Dynamo visual programming tool. The existing GIS system used by the Indiana Department of Transportation for highway network representation has significant limitations of data storage and handling capacity, representation of complex entities, and inclusion of crucial traffic data from weigh-in-motion and automatic traffic recorder stations. The developed process involves converting poly-curves from the GIS model into model-curves compatible with BIM, classifying attributes into shape families, and integrating traffic data from traffic recorder stations. The resulting multidimensional BIM platform, extending from three to eight dimensions, encompasses essential project details and traffic data. To ensure interoperability, an Open BIM process involving the generation of an industry foundation classes (IFC) file is utilized, allowing efficient data exchange among different software platforms and stakeholders.